Al-Ahli Saudi have identified Nigerian international Ademola Lookman as a priority target ahead of the summer transfer window as the club looks to reinforce its attacking options.
The Jeddah-based outfit, keen to challenge domestic rivals Al-Hilal, Al-Nassr, and Al-Ittihad for supremacy in the Saudi Pro League, is reportedly planning a major recruitment drive and views Lookman as a key figure in their ambitions to revitalise the squad.
The 26-year-old has emerged as one of Al-Ahli’s top targets as they aim to bolster their forward line with proven international talent.
Lookman, currently playing for Italian Serie A side Atalanta Bergamo, has been the subject of growing interest from both Saudi and European clubs in recent seasons.
Despite previous links to elite European teams including Barcelona and Manchester United, the Lagos-born forward has remained committed to Atalanta, where he has consistently delivered strong performances.
However, his stay in Bergamo has not been without complications. Lookman has experienced moments of tension with Atalanta head coach Gian Piero Gasperini, notably in February when he missed a Champions League fixture against Club Brugge.
More recently, an early substitution in a league match against Lazio—reportedly due to a communication breakdown—has fuelled speculation about his long-term future at the club.
Al-Ahli see this situation as an opportunity to lure the dynamic winger to Saudi Arabia, but any potential transfer is expected to be costly.
Atalanta have made it clear they are reluctant to part with one of their most valuable assets without a significant financial incentive.
Sources suggest the Italian club has set a price tag of around €60 million for the Nigeria international, who has made 23 appearances for his country and scored six goals.
Still under contract with Atalanta until June 2026—with an option to extend for an additional year—Lookman remains an integral part of Gasperini’s plans.
His explosive pace, dribbling skill, and eye for goal have made him one of the standout performers in Serie A, attracting attention from scouts across Europe and beyond.
For Al-Ahli, the pursuit of Lookman forms part of a broader strategy to restore the club’s competitive edge.
In recent seasons, they have struggled to keep pace with the league’s top-tier clubs despite significant investment.
By targeting high-calibre international players, the club hopes to reassert itself as a dominant force in Saudi football.
Whether Lookman is tempted by the project in Jeddah remains to be seen. While the Saudi Pro League continues to attract global talent with lucrative contracts and ambitious sporting projects, the Nigerian forward may weigh that against the opportunity to remain in European football, where he has steadily built a solid reputation.
The coming weeks are likely to be decisive as Al-Ahli prepare their bid and Atalanta brace for inquiries. For now, Lookman remains focused on his duties in Italy, but the summer window could mark a turning point in his career.
